Marcel Brands might have not always convinced in his role as Everton’s Director of Football after a number of high-profile signings failed to prove their worth but he should be applauded for some of his recent business.
Granted, having a manager such as Carlo Ancelotti will help attract players to Goodison Park but Brands’ role shouldn’t be overlooked.
With that in mind, insight from Patrick Boyland in his mailbag from The Athletic is particularly interesting.
When asked about the Dutchman’s future, Boyland revealed the club are ‘relaxed’ about his long-term plan and could begin contract talks towards the end of the campaign.
Praised by Ancelotti, keeping the two together is important for the club. Indeed, the level of arrival over the course of the summer just gone saw Everton praised for their business.
Obviously an influential figure on Merseyside, his standing as a board member at Everton also reportedly makes it likely his stay will be extended. Such is his level of importance, a new contract isn't necessarily needed in order to retain his services.
The Daily Telegraph noted how Brands had changed his policy when it came to buying players for Everton. While he was reportedly working under the proviso that signing younger players was the way to go, the signings of James Rodriguez, Allan and Abdoulaye Doucouré don't fit that mould.
Still, it does look to have worked. Recent results may well have dampened some the early season excitement but there has been a marked improvement in their first-team since the campaign started.
With that in mind, keeping the working relationship between Brands and Ancelotti looks to be a major positive.